This study examined the influence of animal-assisted therapy, specifically fish aquariums, on
nutritional intake in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Sixty-two individuals with AD
who lived in specialized units were studied. Baseline nutritional data were obtained followed by
a 2-week treatment period when the aquariums were introduced. The treatment data were col-
lected daily for 2 weeks then weekly for 6 weeks. Nutritional intake increased significantly
(21.1%; p < .001) when the aquariums were introduced and continued to increase during the 6-
week weekly follow-up. Weight increased significantly (1.65 lbs; p < .001) over the 16-week
period. In addition, participants required less nutritional supplementation, resulting in health
care cost savings.